PheNo Showcases Advanced 3D Plant Phenotyping at CVCS 2026

The Norwegian Plant Phenotyping Infrastructure (PheNo) was represented by the NTNU team at the Colour and Visual Computing Symposium (CVCS 2026) in Gjøvik on 24-25 September, where researchers presented innovative work on advanced plant phenotyping technologies.

At the symposium, the PheNo-NTNU Team demonstrated a novel pipeline for three-dimensional (3D) plant reconstruction that combines robotics, computer vision, and plant science. The system uses a robotic arm equipped with an RGB camera that automatically moves around a plant, capturing images from multiple viewpoints. These images are then processed and merged into a detailed 3D digital model of the plant.

Unlike conventional two-dimensional photographs, the resulting 3D reconstruction provides a comprehensive representation of plant architecture. The model can be analysed as a 3D point cloud, enabling researchers to examine structural traits and characteristics with greater accuracy and detail. This approach offers new opportunities for non-destructive plant measurements and more precise phenotyping.

The work presented at CVCS 2026 highlights the growing role of computer vision and automation in plant research. By integrating advanced imaging technologies with automated data acquisition, researchers can gain deeper insights into plant growth, development, and performance.

Watch the video below to see the robotic imaging system in action and how multiple images are transformed into a detailed 3D representation of a plant.

Looking ahead, the team plans to expand the pipeline by incorporating a multispectral sensor. This enhancement will make it possible not only to analyse the plant’s structure but also to capture spectral information, providing additional insights into plant health, physiology, and other important biological traits.

The presentation at CVCS 2026 demonstrates PheNo’s continued commitment to developing and implementing cutting-edge technologies that support plant science research and strengthen Norway’s plant phenotyping capabilities.